How to Get the Most Out Of the Fair

Purpose:

To initiate networking between student and employer and gain a better understanding of the diverse opportunities in the environmental/natural resources job market.

Before the fair:

    1. Make sure to sign up only for employers that are looking for you! Check to see if they are interested in summer interns or permanent hires (or both). International students should be sure the employers can hire individuals who are not US citizens.
    2. Do your homework! Learn as much as you can about the organizations before you interview with them.

What are informational interviews?

These are interviews used to gather information, not interviews for current openings. This is your chance to find out directly from the organization about their programs, what they're looking for in employees, and potential future opportunities. Use your time to find out if you are a good fit with the organization, and position yourself to be "in the loop" about suitable openings as they come up. Informational interviews require the same amount of preparation, communication and follow-up as actual job interviews!

Prepare for informational interviews:

    1. Re-read company literature to identify areas of interest (VERY IMPORTANT)!
    2. Be organized; know something about the organization/project areas.
    3. Develop your questions ahead of time.

Double-check your interview schedules and know name of recruiter(s).

Maximize your effectiveness during the interview:

    1. Articulate your career interest(s) in a concise yet informative manner.
    2. Express relevant skills and abilities, experiences, and academic background.
    3. Communicate personal/motivational characteristics (teamwork, leadership, personal attributes, etc.).
    4. Be enthusiastic!

Be prompt for all scheduled interview times.

This is a professional opportunity "dress accordingly" you don't have to wear black!

Group dynamics/group conversation

    1. Be courteous to your peers; do not monopolize the interviewer's time or the group dialogue (i.e., avoid long-winded answers or "rapid-fire" questions).
    2. Listen actively; this will help you avoid redundant questions and will maximize the information exchange.
    3. Politely interrupt if one person is dominating the session.

Follow-up: It's your responsibility!

    1. Pick up recruiters' cards and send follows-up emails/letters/resumes.
    2. Follow-up correspondence is another opportunity to sell your relevant skills, training, and accomplishments.

 

 

 

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